Iowa rock-climbing wall closes after accident

The University of Iowa has closed a rock-climbing wall at its wellness center after a student fell about 30 feet and injured his spine.

The Gazette in Cedar Rapids reports that 21-year-old Spencer E. Bean was climbing the wall just before 10 p.m. Thursday when he fell. Bean landed on his feet, and was rushed to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Recreation center officials say the wall was closed after Bean fell, and has not reopened.

Bean is originally from Highland Park, Illinois. His brother, Josh Bean, tells The Associated Press that the fall crushed two of Spencer's vertebrae and nearly paralyzed him. Spencer Bean underwent an eight-hour surgery.

University of Iowa public safety officers are still investigating.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.